The Spaniard played in his side's last Premier League match, a 1-1 draw with Everton, but was not risked as a precaution for the trip to Borussia Dortmund, who beat City 1-0 to eliminate them from European competition.

Roberto Mancini had cast doubt upon his chances of making the crunch fixture but Silva has successfully taken part in training sessions ahead of the game.

The news is a boost for the City boss, with James Milner (hamstring), Aleksandar Kolarov (groin) and Gael Clichy (foot) all also doubts for the United clash.

Silva has featured in 16 of his side's 23 fixtures in all competitions so far this season, having missed a short spell when he suffered a previous hamstring injury while on international duty for Spain.

City go into the derby three points behind the Red Devils but would overtake them at the top of the table on goal difference should they emerge victorious at the Etihad Stadium.

The hosts won the corresponding fixture last season 1-0 thanks to a Vincent Kompany goal.